Applying real system age to DoD systems

Abstract

Why do some systems exceed their planed lifecycle while others retire at or before their planned retirement date? A possible answer to this question is that systems that exceed their planned lifecycle have several common non‐functional attributes that enable them to continue to provide value to their stakeholders well beyond their planned lifecycle. As this is the case in several Department of Defense systems, it should be possible to develop a mathematical representation of the real system age for these engineered systems to compare that age to their chronological age and determine when to retire a system. This paper expands on previous work to develop a mathematical relationship for real system age by applying it to several DoD systems to include the B‐52 bomber, A‐10 aircraft, F‐117 stealth fighter, and the OH‐58D helicopter. It identifies that the systems the DoD retired have similar traits as their real system age closely follows the chronological age and approaches a 25‐year threshold for retirement. With this equation, it is possible to identify when a system is due for retirement or if an upgrade to the system may be able to extend the useful life of the system.

Machine learning approaches for improving integration of advanced sensors on legacy aircraft

“…The most widely used Air Force bomber, the B-52, became operational over 65 years ago. 2 Because legacy aircraft can be outdated with long service lives, they deal with obsolescence and effectiveness challenges as adversary capabilities improve. Sensors need to be updated regularly to keep the legacy aircraft operationally relevant.…”

“…Aircraft needed for missions are often very old. The most widely used Air Force bomber, the B‐52, became operational over 65 years ago 2 . Because legacy aircraft can be outdated with long service lives, they deal with obsolescence and effectiveness challenges as adversary capabilities improve.…”

“…Dealing with integration risks and interoperability is key for keeping aerospace systems relevant and affordable. Recent research using data from the B‐52 bomber, A‐10 fighter, F‐117 stealth fighter, and OH‐58B helicopter determined that interoperability is the second highest factor on real system age and determining weapon system viability 2 . Even though slow traditional programs could mitigate integration risk with large budgets and plenty of schedule margin, future sensor integration must become faster and more affordable to meet operational needs.…”